Alambir from the Christchurch Branch
My favourite place to eat out at is the Christchurch Riverside Market because you can find all types of food there, whether it is Indian, Mexican, Japanese or Chinese, you can find everything there!
Road Trip Christchurch to Kaikoura Drive: 6 Places to see
The Christchurch to Kaikoura drive is one of the most scenic coastal routes in New Zealand. It takes you from the bustling Garden City of Christchurch to the marine wildlife haven of Kaikoura.
If you’re lucky, you can witness whales, dolphins, and seals in their natural habitat. This route has incredible stops that let you soak in the region's beauty and explore its fascinating history.
Don’t want the hassle of planning every detail for your South Island road trip? No worries! Follow our carefully crafted itinerary to maximise your South Island adventure. And be sure to check out the available vehicles at our Christchurch Airport branch to find the perfect ride for your trip!
Quick Stats
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Trip distance: 181 km
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Days: 1 (or 2 if you want to explore more stops)
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Car recommendation: SUV or Compact Car for comfortable coastal driving
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Suitable for: Nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and road trip adventurers
Road Trip Map
How long is the Christchurch to Kaikoura drive?
The drive from Christchurch to Kaikoura is approximately 181 kilometres and can be completed in about 2.5 hours without stops. However, with our carefully planned itinerary, you’ll want to take your time to fully enjoy the stunning coastal views, explore charming small towns, and visit breathtaking natural landmarks along the way.
This journey is more than just a drive—it's an adventure that lets you experience some of the best New Zealand’s South Island has to offer. So, take your time, savour each stop, and make unforgettable memories on the road!
Christchurch to Kaikoura Tips from our Local Staff!
Kia Ora from our award-winning employees! We are passionate about New Zealand and have put together our insider local tips to GO the extra mile for our customers!
Olga from the Christchurch Branch
Akaroa is definitely our favourite family spot – it is only 80 km away from Christchurch, so perfect for a day trip, and it has it all – stunning landscapes, spectacular harbour, authentic restaurants offering French and local cuisine (make sure you visit famous Akaroa Fish & chips!), boutique shops & galleries. The dolphin cruise is a must attraction too!
Wendy from the Nelson Branch
Kaikoura is a great place to GO whale watching and don’t forget to stop by Kaikoura Seafood BBQ for lunch. Enjoy fresh crayfish with stunning ocean views!!
Lauren from HQ Trade Team
Don’t forget to check out the Albatross Encounter Watching Tours when you’re visiting Kaikoura, it’s an awesome tour to meet some of the most extraordinary seabirds close-up!
1 Arrive in Christchurch
Before driving to Kaikoura, take at least a few hours to explore the beautiful city after your car is picked up at the Christchurch International Airport. Christchurch offers a perfect mix of cultural experiences, green spaces, and activities to kick-start your adventure. Here are a few must-see attractions we love before hitting the road.
Christchurch Botanic Gardens
The Christchurch Botanic Gardens is a peaceful oasis in the city's heart. Wander through themed gardens, admire vibrant flower displays, and enjoy a relaxing walk along the Avon River. It's the perfect place to unwind and enjoy natural beauty before beginning your coastal journey. Another option if you love nature is the International Antarctic Centre to learn about amazing animals.
Canterbury Museum
Jump into the rich local history and culture at the Canterbury Museum. From exhibits on Maori culture to Antarctic expeditions, this museum offers fascinating insights into the heritage of Christchurch and beyond. A great way to immerse yourself in the city’s past before heading out on your road trip.
Christchurch Gondola
For a panoramic view of the city, the Canterbury Plains, and the distant Southern Alps, take a ride on the Christchurch Gondola. You can enjoy walking tracks at the summit, take in the stunning scenery, or relax with a coffee at the summit café. It’s a scenic way to experience the city from a different perspective.
2 Christchurch to Waikuku (29 km – 27 minutes)
After leaving Christchurch, your first stop is the small coastal town of Waikuku, just a short 27-minute drive away. Known for its laid-back atmosphere and stunning beach, Waikuku is the perfect place to stretch your legs and enjoy fresh sea air before continuing your journey to Kaikoura.
Waikuku Beach
Waikuku Beach is a hidden gem on the Canterbury coast. It offers wide sandy shores and a peaceful, uncrowded setting. It’s a great spot for a quick swim, a stroll, or a relaxing beachside picnic. The playground and BBQ areas make it family-friendly, perfect for a short break on your road trip.
Lavender Fields
Waikuku’s famous Lavender Fields is one of the oldest lavender farms in New Zealand. Initially planted in 1992, your road trip is the perfect excuse to go for a leisurely wander in these stunning fields.
Pegasus Golf Club
For those who like a bit of sport, the Pegasus Golf Club offers a scenic course surrounded by beautiful countryside. Whether you’re up for a quick game or just want to enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, this golf club is a peaceful place to take a break before returning to the road.
3 Waikuku to Waipara (30 km - 22 minutes)
After leaving the serene coastal town of Waikuku, a 22-minute drive will take you to Waipara, one of New Zealand's premier wine regions. This lush valley, known for its vineyards and olive groves, is the perfect stop for wine enthusiasts and food lovers.
Waipara Valley Wine Region
Waipara has over 75 vineyards, many offering cellar door tastings and tours. Known for its exceptional Pinot Noir and Riesling, a visit to one of Waipara’s boutique wineries is a must. Stop by Pegasus Bay Winery or Greystone Wines for tastings, and enjoy lunch at a vineyard restaurant with lovely views of the surrounding countryside.
Waipara Springs Winery & Restaurant
For a relaxing break, visit the Waipara Springs Winery & Restaurant. This family-owned winery offers a beautiful garden setting where you can buy local wines and meals made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. It's an ideal spot to recharge and enjoy the region's flavours before continuing your journey.
Iron Ridge Quarry Sculpture Park
Just a short drive from Waipara is the Iron Ridge Quarry Sculpture Park, where art meets nature. This outdoor gallery features striking sculptures by local artist Raymond Herber, set against a stunning backdrop of hills and native bush. It's a unique stop that blends creativity with the area's natural beauty.
4 Waipara to Gore Bay (63 km – 48 minutes)
Leaving the picturesque vineyards of Waipara, a scenic 48-minute drive will take you to the coastal gem of Gore Bay. Known for its dramatic cliffs and tranquil atmosphere, Gore Bay is a perfect spot to experience the rugged beauty of New Zealand's east coast.
Gore Bay Beach
Gore Bay Beach is a peaceful and pristine stretch of coastline, ideal for swimming, surfing, or simply relaxing by the ocean. Its untouched beauty and quiet surroundings make it a great stop for beach lovers looking to enjoy the serenity of the sea. Pack a picnic to soak up the sun, or walk along the sandy shores.
Cathedral Cliffs
One of the highlights of Gore Bay is the impressive Cathedral Cliffs, a stunning geological formation just a short drive from the beach. These towering cliffs resemble cathedral spires and offer breathtaking views of the coastline. A convenient lookout point along the road is perfect for capturing panoramic photos of this unique natural wonder.
Gore Bay & Buxton Camp Grounds
If you want to slow down and enjoy the outdoors, Gore Bay & Buxton Camp Grounds offers a great space for an extended break. Nestled between the beach and native bush, this camping area is ideal for a short walk or a longer stay if you want to explore more of the local surroundings. It’s a great place to connect with nature and enjoy the simplicity of coastal life.
5 Gore Bay to Oaro (53 km - 50 minutes)
After soaking up the coastal beauty of Gore Bay, a scenic 50-minute drive along State Highway 1 will bring you to the small settlement of Oaro. Nestled between the mountains and the sea, Oaro offers a serene spot to pause and enjoy New Zealand's east coast's rugged landscapes and tranquil atmosphere.
Oaro Beach
Oaro Beach is a hidden gem, offering a quiet stretch of coastline with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the Kaikoura Ranges. Whether walking along the pebble beach or just relaxing by the shore, this peaceful spot is perfect for a calm break on your road trip. The area is known for its clear waters and offers a chance to spot local wildlife like seals and seabirds.
Oaro River
This gorgeous river is perfect for a serene walk and is also a hub for fishing enthusiasts. Get to know this overlooked part of the South Island before heading off on your journey.
6 Oaro to Kaikoura (23 km - 22 minutes)
The final stretch of your journey from Oaro to Kaikoura is a short but stunning 22-minute drive along the coast. This drive offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the Kaikoura Ranges. Kaikoura is renowned for its rich marine life, making it one of the best places in New Zealand to experience nature up close.
Kaikoura Whale Watching
Kaikoura is world-famous for its whale-watching tours. Take a boat or helicopter tour to spot majestic sperm whales, humpback whales, and orcas as they pass through the deep waters just off the coast. Kaikoura's unique geography makes it one of the best places in the world for whale watching year-round.
Seal Colony at Point Kean
If you don’t have your sea legs, visit the seal colony at Point Kean. Just a short walk from the car park, you can observe New Zealand fur seals lounging on the rocks or swimming in the waters. It’s a great spot to take some photos and enjoy the coastline's natural beauty.
Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway
The Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway is a must-do for anyone visiting the town. This scenic track offers panoramic views of the Kaikoura coastline, marine life, and the surrounding mountains. The trail is easy to navigate. It can be completed in sections, making it perfect for a quick stroll or a longer hike.
Kaikoura Museum
Kaikoura may be best known as a natural wonderland, but it offers plenty of culture as well. The Kaikoura Museum shows off the history of the region with stunning exhibitions around fishing, whaling, Maori culture and so much more.
Christchurch to Kaikoura road trip tips?
Here are a few of our top tips for making the most of your drive from Christchurch to Kaikoura:
Christchurch to Kaikoura Through the Lense of our Customers
Our Snap Happy Photo Competition has customers revv’d up about how far they can go in a modern car hire in New Zealand! Submit a cool photo of your GO travel memory and be in with a chance to WIN up to $500 back from your booking too.
Paul
Our very first morning in New Zealand, and what a spectacular start to our holiday! Our GO Rentals car meant we could look for places where no 'organised' tour would venture.
Sebastian
Driving from Christchurch to Kaikoura, we needed to stretch our legs, so we stopped at St Anne's Lagoon, where we saw lots of beautiful native birds, including shovellers and spoonbills, and lots of sheep. We didn't see any whales in Kaikoura, but we still had a whale of a time. Beaut day for a drive!
Chris
Beautiful views from around us. GO Rentals did us proud. Took us places where we wouldn't have gone. Great week exploring the South Island.
Denise
We rented an environmentally-friendly electric car from GO Rentals to visit the beautiful Kaikoura. It's great to be able to easily rent a car with a smaller carbon footprint which may in turn help to preserve the beautiful natural landscapes of New Zealand. We hope to be back one day to explore more of New Zealand too!
One-Way Rentals Fueling Road Trips
The best part of a Kiwi road trip is the freedom of the open road. With GO One-Way Rentals, you can gear up for an epic South Island trip, without the stress of returning to your starting point in time for drop-off. Pick up a one-way Queenstown to Christchurch hire car for your drive to Milford Sound and continue the road trip vibes. One-way rentals are a great way to maximise your trip before you have to step on the breaks.
The best part of a Kiwi road trip is the freedom to explore at your own pace. With GO One-Way Rentals, you can embark on an unforgettable South Island adventure without the hassle of returning to your starting point. Pick up a one-way hire car in Christchurch and enjoy a scenic drive to Kaikoura. When ready to continue your journey, head straight to our Nelson Airport branch for an easy drop-off. One-way rentals let you maximise your road trip experience and keep the adventure going without worrying about retracing your steps!
Get GOing on a South Island Adventure
Ready to hit the open road, taking your time to explore the beauty of New Zealand’s South Island? With GO Rentals, your journey from Christchurch to Kaikoura is just the beginning. Whether you’re after a weekend getaway or a longer adventure, we’ve got the perfect vehicle to suit your needs - from compact cars to spacious SUVs. Enjoy the flexibility of one-way rentals, unlimited kilometres, and basic insurance included, all designed to make your trip stress-free and unforgettable.
Need some extra support? Our GO Rentals app makes managing bookings, checking rental details, and finding exclusive deals easy. Plus, with 24-hour roadside assistance included in our Total Road Care package, you’ll have peace of mind from start to finish.
Browse our vehicle options and check out our weekend rentals for unbeatable value. Whether your adventure takes you to the East or West Coast, GO Rentals is here to help you explore New Zealand on your terms.
